Abstract: A profiled member for clamping plate-like elements, including a slot that accommodates the edge of a plate-like element. A clamping strip having a wedge-shaped cross-section is disposed in this slot, and the clamping strip is pressed against the plate-like element via pressure screws. The clamping strip is disposed in an enlarged slot portion that is provided with a guide surface for guiding the wedge-shaped clamping strip. So that the clamping action is particularly reliable, secure, and easy to operate, it is proposed that the direction of abutment or impact of the pressure agent that acts upon the clamping strip extend essentially parallel to the guide surface, and that the wedge point of the wedge-shaped clamping strip face the base of the slot. In the enlarged slot portion, the guide surface is disposed at a greater and greater distance from the plate-like element as one proceeds in the direction toward the opening of the slot.

Abstract: A support structure for furniture, shelves or the like comprises at least one vertical column and at least one crossbar releasably connected to the vertical column. The vertical column comprises at least two tubular members abutting with end faces thereof against each other, a tension member extending through the tubular members and a pair of end members connected in such a manner to opposite ends of the tension member to engage the end faces of the tubular members opposite the abutting end faces for maintaining the abutting end faces in tight engagement with each other. One of the tubular members is provided with laterally projecting coupling means releasably connected to the crossbar.